Bulldog Puppies: English French And American

The history of the American Bulldog begins with the Old English Bulldog in Britain. Bulldogs were used to bait bulls and in other violent dog fighting competitions. When Britain passed its Cruelty to Animals Act in the 1800s, Bulldogs lost their usefulness and popularity. European breeders thought to breed the Bulldog with the Pug and created a smaller, compact Bulldog that became popular family pet. The French and English versions of the Bulldog are much loved and are often winners of American Kennel Club championships.

Some Europeans brought original Bulldogs with them when they immigrated to America. An American, John D. Johnson, developed an interest in this larger Bulldog and bred what is now known as the American Bulldog. American Bulldog puppies are more similar to Old English Bulldogs though they are no longer bred or trained to be aggressive fighters as were original Bulldogs. American Bulldogs have not been registered with the American Kennel Club but were registered with the United Kennel Club in 1999. American Bulldogs have grown in popularity due to their similarity to cousin, the American Pit Bull Terrier.

American Bulldog puppies should only be purchased from legitimate, certified American Bulldog breeders. A great deal of research should go into choosing a breeder. Because of the use of these dogs as fighters and aggressors in the past, no American Bulldog should be bought if it has an undocumented bloodline. American Bulldog puppies are viewed by many as replacements for American Pit Bull puppies, because the breed is now banned in many countries.

Buyers must realize that there are many illegitimate breeders trying to cash in on the breed's rising popularity. Questionable methods are used by many breeders to sell uncertified dogs that may have health or behavioral issues. Buyers should ask for references from breeders and should have thorough knowledge of the American Bulldog breed so that they know what to look for in puppies and what questions to ask the breeder. Puppies should never be purchased from pet stores, as good breeders would not allow this breed to be sold to inexperienced buyers.

Along with asking for references and tips on care and grooming, buyers of American Bulldog puppies should ask breeders what Bulldog puppy supplies are needed prior to bringing puppies home. It is important that dog owners have their homes set up for new additions so that puppies can feel comfortable and secure in their new environment. Good breeders may even provide a list of puppy supplies and may recommend brands of food, certain grooming products, training manuals and special chew toys to help discipline and occupy bulldog puppies.

Good American Bulldog breeders will ask buyers questions about their knowledge of the breed to make sure puppies are going to a home that meets their needs. They will provide documentation of puppies' medical records and make sure buyers have a veterinarian to provide follow up medical care. They will also help buyers set up a schedule for puppies and answer questions about general care, discipline and grooming.

Buyers should research the breed and breeders thoroughly before purchasing purebred American Bulldog puppies. Steps to take to find American Bulldog puppies and Bulldog puppy supplies are included in this article.